The Centrality of Agriculture: Between Humankind and the Rest of Nature Book

Bridging the gap between political economy and ecology, this work offers a critical review of the history of capitalism and socialism in relation to agriculture. It is argued in the book that the important role of agriculture has been overlooked during the last two centuries and must be restored to a central place in society. Using ecological, historical, humanist, institutionalist, and Marxist methodologies, the argues that the entire project of developing a theory of political economy has been seriously sidetracked by industrialism. Using England as a case study he shows that the relationship between modernity and agriculture need not be so uncomfortable and suggests ways in which the original socialist project can be rejuvenated to make it both more feasible and more attractive. The book concludes that no sustainable human future can be conceived unless and until the centrality of agriculture is properly recognized and new economic institutions are developed that will encourage people to take care of their landscapes. This book is intended for students of political economy and ecology.Read More